Federal Minister for Board of Investment (BOI), Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh, held a landmark meeting today with the Chairperson of NAVTCC, Gulmina Bilal Ahmad, Executive Director of PODA, Sameena Nazir, and renowned artist Asmaa Zia.
The meeting highlighted the pivotal role of women in Pakistan’s socio-economic development, explored avenues for woman-led entrepreneurship and skill-based investment, and marked the purchase of an original painting to be contributed toward a charity initiative.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh emphasized boosting women’s participation in the formal economy, from skilled labour to entrepreneurship. Chairperson NAVTCC briefed the Minister that as Pakistan’s apex body for vocational training and skill building, NAVTCC is mandated to bridge the skill-gap and create employment opportunities, especially for women.
By purchasing a painting by Artist Asmaa Zia, Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh signaled that art can serve a dual purpose, as cultural enrichment and as an asset class contributing to social good. The painting will be donated to charity, creating a model of socially responsible investing.
Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh noted that women-led enterprises whether through skilled trades, creative industries, or small businesses represent a vital investment opportunity. “When women succeed, economies grow and so does national prosperity,” he said.
Sameena Nazir welcomed the initiative, saying, “This marks an important step in recognizing that women’s empowerment is not just a social cause but it is an economic imperative.” Artist Asmaa Zia expressed her honor in contributing her art to a charitable cause advancing women’s economic empowerment.
The Minister highlighted that the government has removed 80% of unnecessary restrictions on the business community and successfully passed the Aasaan Karobar Act Bill from the National Assembly to improve the business climate, benefiting women-owned businesses and investment opportunities.
The meeting signals a fresh, integrated approach to women’s empowerment in Pakistan. Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh reaffirmed that the Board of Investment remains fully committed to promoting investment and facilitating sustainable economic development across the country.
